‘This is amazing.’ I turn to face Nico, who is now standing next to me, eagerly watching my reaction.

As we approach the entrance to the restaurant, he holds open the door for me, leaning in as I pass. His voice is low and his eyes are playful.

‘I keep this in reserve for special occasions. And for special people. I’ve taken the liberty of ordering a rather good bottle of wine. Unfortunately, I’m only going to be able to join you for one glass, but I want you to relax and savour the moment.’

‘Nico, you should have warned me. I would have made more of an effort if I’d realised this was an important day for you. And now the suspense is killing me. What is this all about? Have you sold another painting? Oh, my, you have!’

A satisfied little smile makes his lips twitch, but he says nothing.

I know the purchase of the upgraded van put a big dent in his bank balance, but it was a necessary investment. If his good news means that it’s covered, then that is indeed cause for a toast.

The sprawling restaurant is on two levels, reflecting the nature of the site. We are led down to the lower level and a quiet table looking out over a terrace. As the land falls away, I gaze out at the bell tower of the old church, which rises up to our right, and at the far-reaching views ahead.

‘Parfait, merci,’ I mutter, as the waiter pulls out a chair for me. He proceeds to lay a white linen napkin on my lap with a flourish.

Scanning around, all of the tables have a white church candle in the centre. It sits on a wooden plinth within a glass sleeve. In addition, on our table there is a posy of electric blue, winter-flowering irises in a small, cut-glass crystal bowl. Next to it, a bottle of red wine has been opened and is breathing.

‘Is it your birthday?’ I ask Nico, thinking that some thought has gone into this today.

The waiter returns with the menus, distracting Nico. They exchange a few words in French and there is much smiling and nodding of heads. When we are left alone, my patience runs out and I peer at him intently.

‘There must be a big cheque coming your way, Nico?’ Maybe enough to pay for the building work and materials for the recent renovations, I hope.

‘This isn’t about the retreat, or me, Fern. This is about you. Now, focus on the rather excellent selection of food on offer. All will be revealed very soon, I promise.’